No matter where you live, chances are you have at least one financial advisor in your area. As retirement nears, it is vital to start putting a plan together. That way, you can have a clearer picture of your financial health in retirement. An advisor who can help guide you through the decisions and the retirement process will make it easier for you to work toward your short-term and long-term goals. But how do you decide on which advisor is best for you? Is any advisor able to help you achieve your financial retirement goals? If you are a federal employee, you will need to make sure that the financial advisor you select knows about all your unique benefits as a federal employee. Therefore, a Fed Focused advisor is your best option.
WHY SHOULD I PRIORITIZE FINDING A FED-FOCUSED ADVISOR?
A Fed-focused Advisor focuses on the federal employee retirement system. You face unique challenges to your retirement plan. While some general facts about retirement are true for everyone, federal workers’ have a structured retirement plan which differs significantly from private sector workers. Finding an advisor who specializes in federal retirement and understand its complexities can help you fine-tune your plans to include issues that affect you specifically, such as:
- Choosing the investment allocations that fit your specific needs.
- Diversifying your portfolio based on your risk tolerance, desire for growth, and retirement income requirements.
- Help you avoid short-term mistakes and focus on long-term goals.
- Design a distribution plan and efficient income strategy once you reach retirement.
- Preparing for tax liability issues.
WHERE CAN I FIND A FED-FOCUSED ADVISOR?
Depending on where you live, you may not have a Fed Focused advisor in your city. Having a local resource, however, isn’t a concern. You may have to look a little further than your city limits to find a Fed focused advisor. Thankfully, technology has made meetings easier to connect with people. Appointments can be made over Zoom or via phone calls if needed. That means there is no reason you need to settle for an advisor who lacks knowledge of the federal retirement system. Licensing from oversight organizations such as FINRA and SIPC applies nationally, meaning you can choose a Fed-focused advisor in any state.
Additionally, you can look for advisors with the Federal Retirement Consultant℠ credential like David and Gary Raetz have at Benchmark Financial Group. The Federal Retirement Consultant designation is a professionally listed designation on FINRA. It demonstrates the highest ethical standards on federal employee retirement benefits. To obtain and maintain the FRC℠ certification, individuals are required to demonstrate a commitment to high standards, continuing education, professional ethics, and trust. This sets the FRC℠ credential holder apart from other practitioners working with federal employees.
READY FOR THE NEXT STEP?
Are you looking for help to get the process started? It all starts with gathering your information, discussing your goals, and preparing a plan so that we can help you maximize your income in retirement. With the right strategy, you can get your income equal to or exceed your pre-retirement net income. To get started, schedule an appointment today with Benchmark Financial Group by filling out the form online or calling David Raetz at 913-534-8256 to discuss your financial needs. Benchmark Financial Group is happy to help you navigate your options and determine the best path to move toward your financial goals.
*Securities and Advisory Services Offered Through CreativeOne Securities, LLC Member FINRA/SIPC and an Investment Advisor. Benchmark Financial Group, LLC and CreativeOne Securities, LLC are not affiliated.
9300 W. 110th Street, Ste 160
Overland Park, KS 66210
